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At OU Medicine, our mission is leading health care. Our vision is to be the premiere enterprise for advancing health care, medical education and research for the community, state and region. Through our combined efforts we strive to improve the lives of all people.

Children's Services

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The College of Medicine is the largest component of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and is at the center of OU Medicine. Our mission is leading health care - in education, research and patient care.

After Heart Valve Surgery: At Home

Your healthcare provider performed surgery to repair or replace one or more of your heart valves. These valves make sure that blood flows through your heart the right way. You had heart valve surgery to improve the flow of blood through your heart. It should also decrease or stop the symptoms you have been having.

Home care

Take your medicines exactly as directed. Don’t skip doses.

Avoid using very hot water while showering. It can affect your circulation and make you dizzy.

Clean your incision every day with soap and water. Gently pat dry the area of the incision. Don’t use any powders, lotions, antibiotic creams, or oils on your incision until it is well healed. Healing takes several weeks.

Weigh yourself every day, at the same time of day, and in the same kind of clothes.

Tell your healthcare provider if you feel depressed, have trouble sleeping, or have a persistent decrease in appetite. These are common problems after surgery, but they can slow your recovery. It’s important to seek help.

Your healthcare provider may tell you to take antibiotics before having any dental work. Some people who have had heart valve surgery must take antibiotics before dental work. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about any special instructions for dental cleanings or procedures.

Activity

Discuss with your healthcare provider what you can and can’t do as you recover. You will have good and bad days. This is normal.

Let others drive for the first 3-6 weeks after your surgery.

Ask someone to stand nearby while you shower or do other activities, just in case you need help.